High School Course Guide 2021-2022

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High School Course Guide 2021-2022
2021-2022
         High School
        Course Guide

Governing Board approved on:12/9/20
                                      Updated: 12/11/2020 8:12 AM
High School Course Guide 2021-2022
Annual Public Notification of Nondiscrimination
The Higley Unified School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex
(including sexual orientation and gender identity and expression), age, disability, veteran or military status,
religion, or genetic information in the admission or access to, treatment or employment in its educational
programs or activities. Inquiries or complaints concerning discrimination may be referred to the District’s
Compliance Officer:

Ms. Mum Martens, Executive Director of Human Resources, 480-279-7000, Mum.Martens@husd.org

For inquiries or complaints relating to Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act (which prohibits discrimination
on the basis of disability), the Superintendent designates the following individual(s) as the Section 504
Coordinator:

Ms. Shauna Miller, Director of Special Education, 480-279-7000, Shauna.Miller@husd.org

For inquiries or complaints relating to Title IX (which prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex, the
Superintendent designates the following individual(s) to act as Title IX Coordinator:

Ms. Mum Martens, Executive Director of Human Resources, 480-279-7000, Mum.Martens@husd.org

                                      Notificación de Non Discriminación
                                               (Spanish Version)
El Distrito Escolar Unificado de Higley no discrimina por motivos de raza, color, origen nacional, sexo
(incluida la orientación sexual e identidad y expresión de género), edad, discapacidad, estado veterano o
militar, religión o información genética en la admisión o acceso. Tratamiento o empleo en sus programas o
actividades educativas. Las consultas o quejas relacionadas con la discriminación pueden remitirse al Oficial
de Cumplimiento del Distrito:

Sra. Mum Martens, Directora Ejecutiva de Recursos Humanos, 480-279-7000, Mum.Martens@husd.org

Para consultas o quejas relacionadas con la Sección 504 de la Ley de Rehabilitación (que prohíbe la
discriminación por motivos de discapacidad), el Superintendente designa a las siguientes personas como
Coordinador de la Sección 504:

Sra. Shauna Miller, Directora de Educación Especial, 480-279-7000, Shauna.Miller@husd.org

Para consultas o quejas relacionadas con el Título IX (que prohíbe la discriminación por sexo, el
Superintendente designa a las siguientes personas para que actúen como Coordinador del Título IX)

Sra. Mum Martens, Directora Ejecutiva de Recursos Humanos, 480-279-7000, Mum.Martens@husd.org

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High School Course Guide 2021-2022
FAMILY EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS AND PRIVACY ACT
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) is a Federal law that protects the privacy of student
education records.
FERPA gives parents certain rights with respect to their children's education records. These rights transfer
to the student when he or she reaches the age of 18 or attends a school beyond the high school level.
Students to whom the rights have transferred are "eligible students."
•        Parents or eligible students have the right to inspect and review the student's education records
         maintained by the school. Schools are not required to provide copies of records unless, for reasons
         such as great distance, it is impossible for parents or eligible students to review the records.
         Schools may charge a fee for copies.
•        Parents or eligible students have the right to request that a school correct records which they
         believe to be inaccurate or misleading. If the school decides not to amend the record, the parent or
         eligible student then has the right to a formal hearing. After the hearing, if the school still decides
         not to amend the record, the parent or eligible student has the right to place a statement with the
         record setting forth his or her view about the contested information.
•        Generally, schools must have written permission from the parent or eligible student in order to
         release any information from a student's education record. However, FERPA allows schools to
         disclose those records, without consent, to the following parties or under the following conditions
         (34 CFR § 99.31):
                  School officials with legitimate educational interest;
                  Other schools to which a student is transferring;
                  Specified officials for audit or evaluation purposes;
                  Appropriate parties in connection with financial aid to a student;
                  Organizations conducting certain studies for or on behalf of the school;
                  Accrediting organizations;
                  To comply with a judicial order or lawfully issued subpoena;
                  Appropriate officials in cases of health and safety emergencies; and
                  State and local authorities, within a juvenile justice system, pursuant to specific State law.

Schools may disclose, without consent, "directory" information such as a student's name, address,
telephone number, date and place of birth, honors and awards, and dates of attendance. However, schools
must tell parents and eligible students about directory information and allow parents and eligible students
a reasonable amount of time to request that the school not disclose directory information about them.
Schools must notify parents and eligible students annually of their rights under FERPA. The actual means of
notification (special letter, inclusion in a PTA bulletin, student handbook, or newspaper article) is left to the
discretion of each school.

Higley Unified School District is committed to the policy of providing equal opportunity in all areas of
student services and affirms that there shall be no discrimination against any person or persons because of
race, creed, age, color, handicap, sex, religion, or national origin.

In accordance with the federal regulations governing Title IX and Section 504, a school district receiving
federal funding must designate a responsible person to coordinate its effort to comply with and carry out
the responsibilities of the legislation and regulations. In compliance with the federal regulations, an
employee of the Higley Unified School District has been officially designated by the Board as the Title
IX/Section 504 coordinator. If you have a concern, please contact the Higley Unified School District Office
(480) 279-7000. If your concerns have not been addressed, or if you would like more information on FERPA,
please contact:

                                        Family Policy Compliance Office
                                         U.S. Department of Education
                                          400 Maryland Avenue, SW
                                            Washington, D.C. 20202

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High School Course Guide 2021-2022
Higley Unified School District
                 High School Course Guide
                        Grades 9-12
                         2021-2022

                      Governing Board
                       Kristina Reese
                         Amy Kaylor
                        Scott Glover
                       Greg Wojtovich
                          Jill Wilson

                   District Administration
             Dr. Mike Thomason, Superintendent
         Dr. Dawn A. Foley, Associate Superintendent
David Loutzenheiser, Executive Director of Secondary Education

                     Higley High School
                    Alan Fields, Principal
                   4068 East Pecos Road
                   Gilbert, Arizona 85295
                       (480) 279-7300
                    Fax: (480) 279-7305
                        husd.org/hhs

                 Williams Field High School
                Steve Tannenbaum, Principal
                   2076 South Higley Road
                   Gilbert, Arizona 85295
                       (480) 279-8000
                     Fax: (480) 279-8005
                        husd.org/wfhs

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High School Course Guide 2021-2022
TABLE OF CONTENTS

  No table of contents entries found.
General Information
    Registration Requirements ................................................................................. …………………………………………………1
    Graduation Requirements ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..1
    Education and Career Action Planning (ECAP)…………………………………………………………………………………………………. . 1
    HUSD Advanced STEM Diploma………………………………………………………………….……………………………..……………..…..…2
    HUSD Advanced Honor for Excellence in Academics Diploma……………………………………………………………………………2
    Advanced Placement Capstone Diploma……………………….………………...………………………………………………………..….….3
    HUSD Service Learning Honor for Excellence Seal……………………………………………………………………………………………..3
    Arizona Seal of Biliteracy …..…………………………………………………………………………………………………………..…………………3
    Arizona Seal of Civics Literacy …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..3
    Arizona Seal of Personal Finance……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….4
    Arizona Arts Proficiency Seal……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..4
    Transfer of Credits .................................................................................................................................................. 4
    Test Out .................................................................................................................................................................. 5
    Computer-based / Distance Learning / Concurrent Enrollment ............................................................................ 5
    Middle School Credit .............................................................................................................................................. 5
    Course Load Requirements .................................................................................................................................... 5
    Grade Level ............................................................................................................................................................. 6
    Attendance Requirements ..................................................................................................................................... 6
    Absences ................................................................................................................................................................. 6
    Audit Status …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..…7
    Students Registering After the 20th Day ……………………………………………………………………………………………..……………7
    Withdrawals………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………7
    Grade Improvement ............................................................................................................................................... 7
    Advanced Courses……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..7
    Dual Enrollment ...................................................................................................................................................... 8
    Weighted Courses .................................................................................................................................................. 8
    University and College Requirements and Testing ................................................................................................. 8
    Student Athletes ..................................................................................................................................................... 9
    NCAA Eligibility ...................................................................................................................................................... 9
    Early Graduation ..................................................................................................................................................... 9
    Class Rank ............................................................................................................................................................... 9
    Repeating Courses ................................................................................................................................................ 10
Courses Offered
    Air Force Junior ROTC ......................................................................................................................................10-13
    Career and Technical Education (CTE) .............................................................................................................13-25
    English Language Arts ......................................................................................................................................25-30
    Fine Arts...........................................................................................................................................................30-38
    Mathematics ....................................................................................................................................................38-43
    Physical Education ...........................................................................................................................................43-45
    Science .............................................................................................................................................................45-49
    Social Studies ...................................................................................................................................................50-55
    World Language...............................................................................................................................................56-60
    Non-Departmental Electives ...........................................................................................................................60-62
    Core Course Pathways .....................................................................................................................................63-66
Fees.........................................................................................................................................................................67-69
    East Valley Institute of Technology (EVIT) .......................................................................................................70-89

                                                                                              v
GENERAL INFORMATION
*Course Guide will go into effect 06/1/2021

This course guide contains a list of high school (9th-12th grade) courses offered in Higley Unified School District
Schools. Graduation requirements, course prerequisites, and other pertinent information are included in this guide.
Students need to carefully review their options in order to make informed decisions about the courses they will take
to prepare them for opportunities beyond high school. It is critical to review graduation requirements before
selecting courses. Technical schools, community colleges, and universities each have unique requirements for
entrance that may go beyond what is required to earn a diploma and must be considered when selecting courses.
When selecting courses, it is important to make sure that prerequisite requirements have been met. Student
selections of courses are used to develop classes as well as assign and hire teachers to meet student requests.
Courses may not be available if sufficient registration requests are not received.

Registration Requirements
To register at a Higley Unified School District High School, there are several requirements that must be met. The
following will need to be provided at registration:
     •       Transcript or report card and withdrawal from previous school
     •       Birth Certificate
     •       Proof of guardianship (Legal guardians are required to provide the school with proof of guardianship or
             have filed a petition for application of temporary or permanent guardianship)
     •       Attendance Area verification-proof of current residency is required
     •       Per ARS 15-872 immunization records must be provided in order for the student to attend school unless
             the student has provided full disclosure of the requirements for exemption

Graduation Requirements
4 credits of English                                             1 credit of American/Arizona History
4 credits of Math                                                1 credit of World History
3 credits of Lab Science, one of which must be Biology           .5 credit of Economics
1 credit of Physical Education                                   .5 credit of American/Arizona Government
6 credits of elective courses                                    Pass American Civics Test
1 credit of Career and Technical Education (CTE) or Fine Arts

*All students are required to pass the state-mandated Civics Test in order to graduate.
**All students are required to participate or opt out of the state-mandated CPR training in order to graduate.
***All students in the graduating class of 2022 and beyond are required to take a Math course each year during
grades 9 – 12. A high school Math course(s) taken at a Higley Unified School District Middle school will be listed on
the high school transcript and be awarded high school elective credit.

American Civics Assessment - Graduation Requirement
Beginning in the 2016-2017 school year, the Competency Requirements for Social Studies shall include a requirement
that, in order to graduate from high school or obtain a high school equivalency diploma, a pupil must correctly
answer at least sixty of the one hundred questions listed on a test that is identical to the Civics portion of the
naturalization test used by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services. A district school or charter school
shall document on the pupil's transcript that the pupil has passed a test that is identical to the civics portion of the
naturalization test used by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services as required by this section.
HUSD will administer the American Civics Test in the 8th grade with subsequent opportunities for high school (grades
9-12) students to take the assessment as needed in order to meet this graduation requirement.

Education and Career Action Planning (ECAP)
An ECAP, required by the State Board of Education, reflects a student’s current plan of coursework, career
aspirations, and extended learning opportunities to develop the student’s individual academic and career goals.
Every student in grades 9-12 shall develop an ECAP in consultation with a school counselor and parent/guardian. The
student ECAP may be revised throughout high school to ensure that the student has the opportunity to study careers
of his/her choice. Students may access their ECAP plan at www.portal.azcis.intocareers.org

                                                         1
HUSD Advanced STEM Diploma (formerly known as STEM-AHED Diploma)
The Advanced STEM Diploma Designation is an innovative model blending rigorous honors curricula with STEM fields of study in
Software Development, Biotechnology, and Engineering. Additionally, students must successfully complete a minimum of three
(3) years in the Biotechnology or Engineering Pathway or two (2) years in the Software Development Pathway. Students
enrolled in this course of study have the opportunity to earn college credits through advanced placement exams or dual
enrollment, and those who complete all requirements for this designation will earn a seal on their high school diploma. (Available
at both HUSD High Schools)

           CURRICULUM                                                  HUSD ADVANCED STEM DIPLOMA
           ENGLISH                                                                 4
           MATHEMATICS                                                             4
           (see Rigorous or Highly Rigorous pathway for    (Honors: Geometry, Algebra II, Honors Pre-Calculus & AP Calculus or
           Mathematics courses)                                                      AP Statistics)
           SCIENCE                                                                          4
           (see Rigorous or Highly Rigorous pathway for    Different lab sciences Honors Earth Science, Honors Biology, Honors
           Science courses)                               Chemistry, and two additional sciences, one (1) must be an AP science
                                                                                          course
           SOCIAL STUDIES                                                                   3
           (see sequence for Social Studies courses)          World History, American History, Government and Economics
           WORLD LANGUAGE                                                       2 years same language
           CTE STEM Program (Software Development,                  2 Software Development or
           Biotechnology or Engineering)                          3 Biotechnology or Engineering
          PHYSICAL EDUCATION***                                                  1
          ELECTIVE COURSES                                                     2/3
          TOTAL REQUIRED COURSES                                                23
          STATE REQUIRED ASSESSMENTS                                   American Civics Test
          STATE REQUIRED TRAINING                             Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)
        *Student must consult with their counselor and fill out additional paperwork.

HUSD Advanced Honor for Excellence in Academics Diploma
HUSD students planning to apply to universities with competitive admission requirements may pursue the HUSD Advanced
Honor for Excellence in Academics designation. Requirements for this designation are outlined below. (Available at both HUSD
High Schools)
           CURRICULUM                                             HUSD ADVANCED HONOR FOR EXCELLENCE IN
                                                                           ACADEMICS DIPLOMA
           ENGLISH                                                                 4
           (see Rigorous or Highly Rigorous pathway for   (Honors English 9, Honors English 10, AP English 11 and AP English 12)
           English courses)
           MATHEMATICS                                                                       4
           (see Rigorous or Highly Rigorous pathway for           (Honors: Geometry, Algebra II and an *advanced math)
           Mathematics courses)
           SCIENCE                                                                           4
           (see Rigorous or Highly Rigorous pathway for     Different lab sciences Honors Earth Science, Honors Biology, Honors
           Science courses)                               Chemistry, and two additional sciences, one (1) must be an **advanced
                                                                                       science course
           SOCIAL STUDIES                                                                    3
           (see sequence for Social Studies courses)           World History, American History, Government and Economics
           WORLD LANGUAGE                                                        2 years same language
           ARTS                                                                              1
                                                                                fine or practical (CTE) arts
           PHYSICAL EDUCATION***                                                             1
           ELECTIVE COURSES                                                                  4
           TOTAL REQUIRED COURSES                                                           23
                                                                        A minimum of four (4) credits must be AP
           GRADE POINT AVERAGE                                               3.75+ (weighted) GPA
           STATE REQUIRED ASSESSMENTS                                         American Civics Test
           STATE REQUIRED TRAINING                                    Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)
                                                              2
* “Advanced mathematics” is a mathematics course with Algebra II as a prerequisite.
        ** “Advanced science” includes SC305WA/SC306WB, SC301WA/SC302WB, SC319WA/SC320WB, SC321WA/SC322WB,
            SC415WA/SC416WB, SC325WA/SC326WB, SC317WA/SC318WB and SC107WA/SC108WB. Students are required to
        successfully complete a course in SC201WA/SC202WB Honors Biology in the 9th or 10th grade AND take the AIMS
        Science assessment at the completion of this course.
       *** Hands only CPR will be taught in each Physical Education class to fulfill Arizona State Statute requirements.

HUSD Advanced Placement (AP) Capstone Diploma
The College Board’s AP Capstone™ is an innovative college-level program based on two new courses — AP® Seminar
and AP Research — that complement and enhance discipline-specific AP courses. The program immerses high school
students in the challenging practice of the critical skills students need today. The ability to think independently, write
effectively, research, collaborate, and learn across disciplines is essential for success in college and beyond. Students
who earn scores of 3 or higher in AP Seminar and AP Research and on four additional AP Exams of their choosing will
receive the AP Capstone Diploma™. This option allows students taking multiple AP courses to distinguish themselves
to colleges and universities. Students who earn scores of 3 or higher in AP Seminar and AP Research, but not on four
additional AP Exams will receive the AP Seminar and Research Certificate™.

HUSD Service Learning Honor for Excellence Seal
Students will be eligible for the Honor for Excellence in Service Learning seal on their diploma upon completion of approved
service learning throughout their four years of high school. Beginning with the graduating class of 2020-2021, 200 hours will be
required. Students may earn hours from a combination of curriculum based service learning and extracurricular service
sponsored by school clubs or community organizations. (Available at all HUSD High Schools).

Arizona Seal of Biliteracy
To be eligible to be awarded the State Seal of Biliteracy, each student shall demonstrate proficiency in English and a
Foreign Language. The student must successfully complete all English Language Arts requirements for graduation
with an overall grade point average in those classes of 2.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale, pass ELA end of course
examinations and must demonstrate proficiency in a second language through a passing score on the *STAMP test, or
receive a score of a 4 or 5 on an **AP world language test. If the student has a primary home language other than
English, the student shall obtain a score of proficient based on the AZELLA.

*The STAMP test requires a fee of $25.00 ** AP exam requires an additional fee

Arizona Seal of Civics Literacy
To be eligible to be awarded the Arizona Seal of Civics Literacy, each student shall demonstrate a high level of
proficiency in Civics. The student must successfully complete all Social Studies requirements for graduation with an
overall grade point average in those classes of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale and pass the Arizona Civics Test. In addition
to these requirements, the student must also complete the portfolio requirements from each of the following 4
categories:
         1) Civic Learning Programs (must complete 3)
         2) Civic Engagement Activities (must complete 2)
         3) Service Learning and/or Community Service hours
         4) Written Reflection as determined by HUSD

        *See school counseling department for additional information and details

                                                             3
Arizona Seal of Personal Finance
To be eligible to be awarded the Arizona Seal of Personal Finance, each student shall demonstrate a high level of
proficiency in personal finance. The student must successfully complete all Social Studies requirements for
graduation with an overall grade point average in those classes of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale. In addition, the student
must also complete all of the following requirements:
        1) Pass Personal Finance Assessment adopted by the State Board of Education
        2) Complete one Personal Finance Program approved by the State Board of Education
        3) Complete one Curricular or Extra-Curricular Program approved by the State Board of Education
        4) Complete one College and/or Career Readiness Plan approved by the State Board of Education

        *See school counseling department for additional information and details

Arizona Arts Proficiency Seal
The State Seal of Arts Proficiency is awarded to Arizona graduates who complete an arts pathway. The seal is meant
to recognize mastery of Arizona arts education standards, cultivate artistic literacy and skills for 21st century success,
promote increased access to well-rounded, high quality arts education and prepare students for college and career
readiness including active participation in the creative industries sector.

Pathway requirements: To qualify for the Arizona State Seal of Arts proficiency, a student will complete the following
requirements:

        1) A final GPA of 3.0 or 4.0 in each of the qualifying arts/CTE courses
        2) 4 minimum credit requirements in one of the following ways:
                a. A minimum of 4 credits in one artistic discipline
                b. 3 credits in one artistic discipline; and 1 credit in a qualifying CTE credit
                c. 2 credits in one artistic discipline and 2 credits in a qualifying CTE course
        3) 30 hours of arts related extracurricular activities*
        4) A student capstone project

        *See school counseling department for additional information and details

Transfer of Credits
The following are the guidelines for transfer of high school credit. Courses that meet daily for a semester represent
.5 credit (a minimum of 80 hours). Those that meet daily for an entire school year represent 1 credit (160 hours).
Acceptance of transfer credits from sources outside the Higley Unified School District is not automatic. Coursework
completed outside the District will be evaluated to determine whether elective or core credit will be awarded
(Governing Board policy JFABC). Following a transfer, the receiving school will evaluate a student’s transcript to
identify credits that will be accepted in meeting core requirements and credits that will be accepted as electives;
however, within 10 days of enrollment, a student may request to take an exam for any course accepted as an
elective. If the student earns a score that demonstrates proficiency, the school will accept the transferred credit as
core credit. There will be no retakes offered for these transfer credits.

Transfer students who plan to graduate from a Higley Unified School District high school will be responsible for
District graduation requirements. In addition, students must earn at least two (2) credits from one (1) of the District
high schools and be enrolled in the school granting the diploma in the semester of graduation.

                                                          4
Test Out
The purpose of test out is to allow students to demonstrate course competencies instead of completing the course.
Students who believe they are proficient in a course may request a test out exam up to 10 school days beginning with
their first day of class. Students who have taken a course in HUSD are not eligible to test out. Students may take only
one test out exam per academic class (e.g. a student requesting a test out for a foreign language is allowed to sit for
the exam a maximum of one time). Students who request to test out of a year-long course must complete a test for
both semesters. The district does not provide study guides, textbooks, or other types of assistance. Credit will be
given in the form of a P (pass) on the student’s transcript only if the score is 75% or higher (this grades will not be
calculated into the GPA). Once credit is awarded, a student may not take the course. Students should see their
counselor for more information.

Computer-based / Distance Learning / Concurrent Enrollment
Four credits from correspondence/distance learning courses may be accepted toward the graduation requirements
from providers outside the Higley Unified School District. Students may only take one of these courses per school
year. Students are required to consult with their counselor and receive prior approval before enrolling in courses
outside the Higley Unified School District to ensure that the credit will transfer properly. Core course (Math, English,
Science, Social Studies) will only be accepted for concurrent enrollment from institutions that provide a proctored
final exam. It is the student’s responsibility to make sure the course taken complies with the NCAA if applicable to
that student.

Middle School Credit
District policy allows students to receive high school credit for some middle school courses under the following
provisions:
         •        Students who successfully complete Algebra I and/or Geometry at a HUSD middle school will have
                  the course posted on their high school transcript. The high school transcripts will reflect the grade
                  the student earned; however, the grade will not be calculated in the student’s GPA. A high school
                  math course(s) taken at a Higley Unified School District middle school will be listed on the high school
                  transcript and be awarded high school elective credit. *All students are required to take a math
                  course during each grades 9-12.

        •       Students who successfully complete Spanish IA and IB will receive Spanish 1 credit if they pass both
                classes consecutively with a C or better. Students desiring to earn World Language credit for Spanish
                I and Spanish II coursework will have to pass both classes with a C or better. Credit will be recorded
                on the high school transcript. The transcript will reflect the letter grade earned in the course,
                however, the grade will not be calculated in the student’s GPA.

        •       Students who successfully complete Mandarin IA and IB will receive Mandarin I credit if they pass
                both classes consecutively with a C or better (1.0 HS credit). Students desiring to earn World
                Language credit for Mandarin I and Mandarin II coursework will have to pass both classes with a C or
                better. Credit will be recorded on the high school transcript. The transcript will reflect the letter
                grade earned in the course, however, the grade will not be calculated in the student’s GPA.

Course Load Requirements
Governing Board policy requires HUSD students to be enrolled in six (6) credit bearing classes until their senior year.
Graduating seniors are required to enroll in a minimum of four (4) credit-bearing courses on campus. Seniors need to
review their credits with a counselor to ensure that all graduation requirements are being met. Seminary is not a
credit bearing course.

                                                         5
Grade Level
A graduation cohort is determined by the year of entrance into high school. For example, a student entering high
school in 2015 as a freshman is a member of the 2019 cohort. A cohort year is used to determine when a student
takes state assessments, credits required to graduate, and expected graduation date.

Attendance Requirements

Since regular attendance is a key to academic success, students need to be in attendance daily. School attendance is
the responsibility of the student and parent or guardian.

A student will be considered absent from class if they enter the classroom more than ten minutes after the
designated start time (as stated in HUSD board policy regulation JE-R). If the student has a valid reason to be late to
class, it will be an excused absence. The absence will be considered unexcused if the student is late without being
excused by the school administration or the parent signing in the child late.

        •       There are two types of absences: excused and unexcused.
        •       Unexcused absences may result in teacher and/or administrator action, or both.
        •       A student should attend 90 percent of class sessions to receive credit. Failure to meet this standard
                may lead to withholding of credit. Cases involving prolonged illness or unusual circumstances will be
                reviewed by the school administration.
        •       Release time is given only with permission of parent or guardian.
        •       Teachers are responsible for recording daily attendance or tardies.
        •       If tardies become excessive, administrative action will be taken. Please review the attendance
                procedures and policies listed in the student handbook for additional information.
        •       A student is considered absent from class if they enter the classroom more than ten (10) minutes
                after the designated start time.

Absences

An absence is defined as a student not being present in his/her assigned classroom during his/her assigned period. An
unexcused absence is any absence from one or more class periods, which has not been excused by a parent and does
not meet the excusable absence requirements. Truancy is 5 days of unexcused absences. A student who reaches 10
absences, excused or unexcused, during a semester may lose credit in the class or classes in which the 10 days are
recorded. The following procedure will be followed:

        •       Parents will be notified when students reach 4, 7, and 10 absences.
        •       When students reach four (4) or more absences they will sign the Audit Notification warning in a
                conference with administration.
        •       If students exceed ten (10) absences for any one class they will be placed on audit status for that
                course.
        •       Students will remain in the class on audit status and may lose credit.
        •       Students will need to complete and turn in the Excessive Absence Appeal Form with proper
                documentation verifying the absences.
        •       Administration will determine if the appeal is granted.
        •       The parent or guardian is charged by law with responsibility for the student's consistent school
                attendance. The Superintendent will enforce the laws regarding attendance, with consideration for
                the variables that affect children and families.

                                                         6
Audit Status
Absences, excused or unexcused, totaling more than ten (10) percent of the semester and per A.R.S 15-803 is
considered excessive. In the Higley Unified School District this equates to ten (10) absences in the same class period
during one full semester.

A student may be placed on Audit Status in the applicable course(s) for lack of attendance once s/he has exceeded 10
(ten) percent.
Audit Status means credit is forfeited. Should the student wish to earn credit at the end of the semester the
following must occur:
        •       No further absences in the affected course;
        •       Continue to fully participate in the classroom and course work;
        •       Earn a minimum 70% in the course and 75% on the final; and
        •       Have no office referrals for discipline in any class.
A student under sixteen (16) years of age and after eighteen (18) absences during the school year may be referred to
the Maricopa County Juvenile Probation Department and/or School Resource Officer for the Court Unified Truancy
Suppression program (CUTS).

Students Registering After the 20th Day
If a student registers in a HUSD high school after the 20th day of the semester and has not attended any school
during the past 20 school days, the student may be registered and have the opportunity to earn credit if missed work
is made up according to the requirements of the classroom teachers.

Withdrawals
Students requesting to withdraw from a course while remaining enrolled in HUSD must receive principal approval.
Freshman, sophomores, and juniors are expected to enroll in (6) credit bearing courses. Seniors must be enrolled in
at least four (4) credit bearing courses per semester and maintain progress toward high school graduation in four
years.
Approved withdrawals from courses will be posted on the student’s transcript according to the following timeline:
         •        Schedule changes within the first ten (10) days of the semester will not be reflected on the transcript.
         •        Withdrawals from the 11th day to the end of the quarter in each semester will be posted with a “W”.
         •        Withdrawals between the quarter of the semester to twenty (20) days prior to the end of the
                  semester will be posted as “W/P” or “W/F” (a “W/F” will make the student ineligible for AIA-
                  sponsored activities for the remainder of the semester).
         •        No withdrawals are permitted within the last twenty (20) days of the semester.

Grade Improvement
Students who want to improve their grade in English, Math, Science, Social Studies, or World Language courses may
repeat the same course through an approved HUSD offered course. Transcripts will reflect the original and repeated
course grade. The improved course grade will be the grade of record and will be factored into the GPA. Credit will be
given for one course, not both.

Advanced Courses
Advanced Placement (AP) courses are available at both HUSD high schools. AP courses prepare students to take the
College Board Advanced Placement examination given in late spring of each school year. Students may be granted
advanced placement status and/or college credit on the basis of how well they perform on these tests. Information
regarding advanced placement courses and examinations is available from the counseling offices at each high school
or please visit http://apcentral.collegeboard.com/home. Students are not required to take an advanced placement
course to be eligible to take an advanced placement examination; however, students enrolled in AP courses are
expected to take the AP exam.

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Dual Enrollment
Dual credit from a college or university course may be granted if prior approval has been received. See school
administration for specific information. Dual credit courses require the payment of tuition to the cooperating
community college. Dual enrollment credit is earned when the course is taken at a high school in the Higley Unified
School District. To receive college credit for a Dual Enrollment course, students must meet all community college
enrollment guidelines; earn a ‘C’ or better and pay tuition. Please contact the Dual Enrollment Coordinator for more
information. Dual Enrollment courses will provide high school credit as well.

Weighted Courses
Weighted grades are assigned to courses that are accelerated and more challenging. A 5.0 grade-point scale value is
possible because of the academic rigor and higher expectations in the work required for that course. Weighted
courses are listed with Honors and AP (Advanced Placement) designations in their titles. Grade point average (GPA)
for transferring students is recomputed in order to align the transferring classes with the courses offered at Higley
Unified School District high schools. Students transferring among HUSD high schools will receive weighted grades
only for those classes that align to the receiving school’s AP and Honors classes. Colleges and universities may
consider the unweighted or weighted grade point average. Special Education students are required to complete the
course of study as prescribed in their Individual Education Plan (IEP).

                                        Weighted Courses Grading Scale
           Percentage                  Letter Grade         Regular                       Honors/AP
             90-100                          A                 4.0                           5.0
             80-89                           B                 3.0                           4.0
             70-79                           C                 2.0                           3.0
             60-69                          D                  1.0                           1.0
              0-59                           F                 0.0                           0.0

University and College Requirements and Testing

                                               Curriculum Requirements
           Curriculum Area                   Higley Unified School District             AZ University Entrance
                                           Standard Diploma Requirements                    Requirements
                English                                4 credits                               4 credits
                 Math                                   4 credits                               4 credits
                Science                              3 lab credits                             3 lab credits
                                          *Biology must be one of the science      One credit in at least three of the
                                                        credits                      four areas (Biology, Chemistry,
                                                                                 Physics, Earth Science). An advanced
                                                                                  level, e.g. advanced placement (AP)
                                                                                    or honors course in a lab science
                                                                                 completed previously can be used for
                                                                                                a third unit.
             Social Studies                             3 credits                                 2 credits
 Career and Technical Education/Fine                    1 credit                                1 credit
                Arts
          World Language                                0 credit                               2 credits
                                                                                    Two years of the same language
          Physical Education                            1 credit                               0 credits
        Total Required Credits                         22 credits                              16 credits

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Testing
Colleges or universities may require the SAT or the ACT as a requirement for admission. Information and registration
is available at http://www.collegeboard.com for the SAT and at www.actstudent.org for the ACT. Information is also
available in the counseling office.

The PSAT is a practice test for the SAT. PSAT is the qualifying test to be used for consideration for the National Merit
Scholarship Program that must be taken during the junior year (11th grade). The PSAT is given in October of each
year. Sophomores are encouraged to take the PSAT as a practice for the junior year PSAT test. Information is
available in the counseling office.

Student Athletes
Students that plan to play athletics in college for a NCAA D-I or D-II level school should review requirements at the
NCAA Eligibility Center at www.eligibilitycenter.org. Also, students interested in playing competitive sports at NAIA
colleges need to register and receive an eligibility determination at http://www.playnaia.org/. Questions regarding
academic requirements should be directed to the school’s NCAA Coordinator.

NCAA Eligibility
All prospective student athletes who intend to participate in Division I or Division II athletics as freshmen in college
must register and be certified by the NCAA Eligibility Center @ www.ncaa.org

Early Graduation
Early graduation candidates must meet all requirements and early graduation must be deemed appropriate for the
students continued education.
        •       All graduates must complete an early graduation request form. The early graduation form must
                include signatures from counselor, administrator, parent, and student.
        •       An early graduation plan with course outline must be included. (It is the student responsibility to
                submit this plan)
        •       Continuation of post-secondary education plan should be included.
        •       High School grades should indicate high school competencies are in place.
        •       Diplomas will be awarded at commencement.

Class Rank
Class rank for students will be determined as follows:

        •       Accumulation of total grade points for high school class rankings begins with the ninth (9th) grade,
                with the exception of weighted honors classes taken within the District prior to the student's ninth
                (9th) grade year. A student's cumulative grade point average is calculated by dividing the student's
                accrued course grade points by the number of course units the student has taken to the date of the
                computation.
        •       Class ranking will be determined each semester after the completion of one (1) semester in the
                District, and following each subsequent semester. Class rank will be based only on grades earned in
                classes that meet or exceed graduation requirements.
        •       Computation of the rankings for top five percent (5%), top two percent (2%) and top one percent
                (1%) of the graduating class will be performed following posting of the first (1st) semester grades of
                the student's senior year.

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Repeating Courses
The following courses may be taken for repeat credit each year:

 AFJROTC Drill Team/Color Guard        Concert Choir                         Percussion Ensemble
 Advanced Ceramics                     Dance Company                         Retail Operations
 Advanced Dance                        Digital Photography III               Sports Medicine II
 Advanced Elite Dance                  Group Fitness                         String Orchestra
 Advanced Graphic Design               Honors Academic Decathlon             Student Council Leadership
 Advanced Vocal Ensemble               Intermediate Dance                    Symphonic Band
 Beginning Dance                       Jazz Band                             TV Broadcasting
 Band Auxiliary / Winter Guard         Journalism                            All CTE Internships
 Chamber Choir                         Marching Band
 Concert Band                          Men’s Chorale

                                               AIR FORCE JUNIOR ROTC

THE FOLLOWING APPLIES TO THE AIR FORCE JUNIOR ROTC COURSES:

    1.      Instructors do NOT recruit students into military service, and there is no military obligation
            incurred through AFJROTC. The program provides benefits to all students, not just the ones that
            want to go into the military.
    2.      One course from AFJROTC 1, 2, 3, or 6 will be offered each year on a rotating schedule.
    3.      AFJROTC Drill Team/Color Guard and Summer Leadership School are offered every year and may be
            repeated for elective credit.
    4.      AFJROTC 4 & 5 may be offered. Contact the instructor with any questions.
    5.      All AFJROTC courses provide leadership training and experience, strengthen character, and
            promote community service.
    6.      All textbooks and uniforms are provided by the United States Air Force. Uniforms are worn once a
            week.
    7.      Other benefits of the AFJROTC program are that it helps cadets compete for an Air Force Academy
            appointment or ROTC scholarships. Also, cadets that finish three years of ROTC and enlist in the
            services after graduation will enter with higher pay.
    8.      All AFJROTC instruction occurs at HHS. WFHS students may attend either the 0-hour or 7th-hour
            academic AFJROTC course offering. Transportation to 0-hour at Higley is the responsibility of the
            student/parents. The district provides transportation after 0-hour to WFHS. For the 7th-hour
            offering, the district provides transportation to and from HHS for WFHS students; they return to
            WFHS in time to catch their regular bus home after school.
    9.      Drill is offered during 0-hour and 8th-hour. The district does not provide transportation to 0-hour or
            home after 8th-hour.

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AFJROTC1 A JOURNEY INTO AVIATION HISTORY (AIR FORCE MANDATE) AF101A/AF102B
MEETS ELECTIVE REQUIREMENT
Introduction to aerospace education and leadership. Cadets gain a basic knowledge of the origins and
development of today’s aerospace world. The course covers the development of flight from dreams of the
early Chinese to the Gulf War. Fundamentals of Leadership include customs and courtesies of the Air Force and
basic drill ceremonies.
            Course Length: 1 year                           Credits: 1
            Prerequisite: None                              Fees: Refer to fee schedule
            Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12                      Location: Offered to WF and HHS students-
                                                            located at HHS

AFJROTC2 SCIENCE OF FLIGHT (AIR FORCE MANDATE) AF103A/AF104B
MEETS ELECTIVE REQUIREMENT
Introduction to aviation science and the physical laws involved. Includes aerospace environment, with and
beyond our atmosphere, the human body’s reaction to flight, the theory of flight, and air navigation.
Leadership skill stresses communication skills, time management, and cadet corps activities.
        Course Length: 1 year                                 Credits: 1
        Prerequisite: None                                    Fees: Refer to fee schedule
        Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12                            Location: Offered to WF and HHS students-
                                                              located at HHS

AFJROTC3 EXPLORING SPACE: THE HIGH FRONTIER AF105A/AF106B

MEETS ELECTIVE REQUIREMENT
Development of propulsion systems used in aircraft and space vehicles: the fundamentals of rocketry and its
application to spacecraft and the principles underlying space travel. Leadership education emphasizes life skills
needed such as financial planning, job applications, resumes, interviews and career opportunities. Cadets
assume leadership positions in the cadet corps as cadet officers and non-commissioned officers (NCOs).
        Course Length: 1 year                                  Credits: 1
        Prerequisite: None                                     Fees: Refer to fee schedule
        Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12                             Location: Offered to WF and HHS students-
                                                               located at HHS

AFJROTC4 SENIOR OPTIONS AF401A/AF402B
MEETS ELECTIVE REQUIREMENT
POLICY AND ORGANIZATION: A brief history of recent presidential administrations. Objectives of the U.S.
military services and a description of the aircraft, missions and organization of each branch of service is
discussed. SURVIVAL: Instruction will provide training in skills, knowledge, and attitudes necessary to
successfully perform fundamental tasks needed for survival. GEOGRAPHY: Gains a general knowledge of the
Earth’s surface and the processes that shape it. MANAGEMENT OF THE CADET CORPS: The cadet learns and
applies the principles of managing the Air Force Junior ROTC Cadet Corps. This hands-on experience affords the
student the opportunity to put theories of previous leadership courses into practice.
         Course Length: 1 year                                 Credits: 1
         Prerequisite: AFJROTC 1 and AFJROTC 2                 Fees: Refer to fee schedule
         Grade Level: 12                                       Location: Offered to WF and HHS students- located
                                                               at HHS

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AFJROTC5 AVIATION HONORS GROUND SCHOOL PROGRAM AF301WA/AF302WB
MEETS ELECTIVE REQUIREMENT
Private Pilots Ground School is an in depth study of flight environment, aircraft systems, engines, weather, air
space, navigation, physiology of flight, and Federal Aviation Regulations. Graduates of this course have been
given enough information to pass FAA Private Pilots written exam. Student must be approved by the Senior
Aerospace Science instructor prior to entry.
        Course Length: 1 year                                 Credits: 1 weighted
        Prerequisite: AFJROTC 1 and AFJROTC 2                 Fees: Refer to fee schedule
        Grade Level: 11, 12                                   Location: Offered to WF and HHS students- located
                                                              at HHS

AFJROTC6 CULTURAL STUDIES: AN INTRODUCTION TO GLOBAL AWARENESS AF107A/AF108B
MEETS ELECTIVE REQUIREMENT
This course is an introduction to various regions of the world from a geographic, historical and cultural
perspective. It provides increased international awareness and insight into foreign affairs that permits a more
educated understanding of other cultures and enhanced knowledge of America’s interests and role in the
world. Geopolitical issues such as terrorism, economics, politics, military issues, religion, environmental
concerns, human rights, disease, over population, literacy, the migration of peoples and other cultural issues
will be explained. The regional areas included in the course are Europe, the Middle East, South Asia, Africa, and
Latin America. Cadets will be in leadership positions and learning how to organize and run the Corps.
         Course Length: 1 year                               Credits: 1
         Prerequisite: None                                  Fees: Refer to fee schedule
         Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12                          Location: Offered to WF and HHS students- located
                                                             at HHS

AFJROTC7 SURVIVAL: SURVIVE-RETURN AF109A/AF110B
MEETS ELECTIVE REQUIREMENT
This course is designed to introduce various skills that will enhance student’s success in life. Curriculum focus
are topics such as communication, leadership, decision making, goal setting, survival training (firecraft,
expedient shelters, field medicine, traps/snares, food & water during survival, land navigation, signaling, and
the psychology of survival), financial responsibility, social responsibility and wellness. Students will explore
survival instructions to successfully perform in any situation, all students are eligible to take this course.
         Course Length: 1 year                                  Credits: 1
         Prerequisite: None                                     Fees: Refer to fee schedule
         Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12                             Location: Offered to WF and HHS students- located
                                                                at HHS

AFJROTC DRILL TEAM/COLOR GUARD AF111A/AF112B
MEETS ELECTIVE OR PHYSICAL EDUCTION REQUIREMENT
This course introduces students to the principles of teamwork, attention to detail, and precision drill. It builds
confidence and strengthens self-esteem. Drill is a very positive activity that instills a heightened sense of
discipline and leadership. The Colorguard Drill team will compete against teams from other schools and
military branches at drill meets (competitions), as well as perform at a variety of school and community events.
In addition to drill classes, it will include physical fitness elements including strength and conditioning. NOTE:
This course may count in lieu of P.E. requirement. This course may be repeated for elective credit.
         Course Length: 1 year                                    Credits: 1 elective or PE
         Prerequisite: Must be in another AFJROTC                 Fees: Refer to fee schedule
         course                                                   Location: Offered to WF and HHS students- located
         Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12                               at HHS

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